Bale inspires Wales to win over Austria in World Cup playoff semi

March 24, 2022 Wales' Gareth Bale celebrates after the match Action Images via Reuters

Gareth Bale scored both goals as Wales edged Austria 2-1 in their playoff semi-final on Thursday to move a step closer to a first World Cup finals appearance in 64 years.

The 32-year-old struck home a precision free kick in the 25th minute to open the scoring, emphasing his role as the team's talisman with a superb effort in Cardiff.

It was followed up by quick thinking from a short corner in the 51st minute from which captain Bale scored again to ensure Wales’ progress to a final playoff at home to either Scotland or Ukraine in June.

A deflected shot from Marcel Sabitzer in the 64th minute offered Austria hope of a comeback as a wasteful Wales endured a nervy finish but the home side held on for a deserved win to stay on course for only their second World Cup appearance.